Menu Options: Variety vs. Customization
Small Weddings (20-50 Guests)
For more intimate affairs, CKC Good Food Event Catering can build a custom menus from a wider variety of foods. While all the items on our menus will be delicious served even at very large events, we have more flexibility to create customized menus with foods that hold meaning for the couple or their families when there are fewer guests. CKC Good Food Event Catering received a 5-star review from one couple who served a customized Afghani menu at their wedding.
Large Weddings (Over 150 Guests)
At larger weddings, efficiency and broad-based appeal are key. Buffet or family-style service tends to work best, allowing guests to choose from a variety of dishes without needing many servers. While personalization is still possible, we often recommend crowd-pleasers—classic entrées, hearty sides and dishes that appeal to a broad audience and hold up to extended periods in chafing dishes. Our slow-roasted smoked pork shoulder with pork jus or crispy brined chicken thighs with apple cider reduction paired with avocado mashed potatoes and glazed carrots with dill are solid choices for larger events.
Logistics: Service Style & Staffing
Small Weddings
With a lower headcount, service can be more intimate and refined. A seated dinner with table-side service is more feasible. Family-style service also offers warmth and conversation among guests.
Large Weddings
Catering for a large event requires detailed coordination, ample staffing and streamlined service methods. Buffets and food stations minimize wait times, while well-trained servers keep beverage stations running smoothly. Plated meals for larger wedding dinners will require more servers and coordination between planners, venue staff and caterers.
Budget Impact & Efficiency
Small Weddings
Although an intimate wedding generally costs less overall, per-person catering expenses may be higher if couples choose gourmet selections with high-end or organic ingredients along with tailored experiences.
Large Weddings
The overall catering expenses for a large wedding will be significantly higher due to the increased volume of food served, equipment rental fees and servers needed.
Choosing between a large or small wedding affects every aspect of catering—from menu options to service logistics. Understanding these differences helps couples plan a dining experience that suits their vision while remaining efficient and enjoyable for their guests. Whether it’s an intimate dinner party or a grand celebration, finding the right balance between quality, personalization and practicality ensures a seamless experience.
